Understanding the Distinction Between Hydrating and Moisturizing for Your Skin — Let’s Explore the Difference

Moisturizers create a protective layer on the skin, sealing in hydration and promoting a smoother texture. Hydrators, on the other hand, draw in moisture from the atmosphere or the skin itself, effectively retaining it. While both serve comparable purposes, they yield distinct outcomes.

By Natalia

You may believe that staying hydrated is a concern exclusively for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin. However, akin to nourishing your body with fluids, skin hydration is essential for all skin types, as it plays a pivotal role in enhancing your skin’s appearance and overall well-being.

Now, you might be wondering, what precisely is skin hydration? Is it synonymous with moisturization? Furthermore, in a market flooded with various products promising to quench your skin’s thirst — ranging from oils and creams to gels — how do you discern the one that genuinely provides your skin with the essential moisture it craves?

What’s the difference between hydrator and moisturizer?

From a scientific standpoint, the term “moisturizer” encompasses various categories:

• Emollients (comprising fats and oils)
• Squalene (an oil)